A good diet and nutrition contribute to a healthy lifestyle, but are equally important to the healing process and regaining health when sickness occurs. People with cancer often ask what they can eat to make themselves stronger or fight off the cancer. Unfortunately, there are no magic answers. Instead, Hematology Oncology Consultants, Ltd. promotes a well-balanced diet containing proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Make sure your food choices include fiber and are high in vitamins and minerals. Drinking 8 glasses of water a day is important for maintaining good health, but vital for keeping kidneys working well while taking cancer treatments.

Some cancers and cancer treatments are accompanied by eating difficulties, taste changes and digestive issues. There are many suggestions and interventions available to minimize any side effects related to chemotherapy, radiation or surgery. It is important for each person to seek out information specific to their diagnosis and treatment. Ask your health care provider for instructions that might be helpful for you.

Alternative diets and dietary supplements are commonly of concern. Vitamins in moderation are usually considered harmless, but there are some supplements and vitamins that should be avoided during cancer treatments. It is very important to provide honest information and full disclosure about dietary supplements you might be using or considering. Some foods and vitamins may actually be harmful to you or diminish the effectiveness of your treatments.

There are many excellent free resources to guide the patient and/or caregiver with nutrition and side effects. Two that we recommend are:

Nutrition for the Person with Cancer during Treatment. American Cancer Society. (print only)